Ingredient

Ylang Ylang Absolute

Cananga odorata

Extracted from the thick yellow petals of ylang-ylang, this absolute captures the true scent of the flower—or at least, it’s getting quite close.

Where does Lush purchase this absolute?

We purchase this absolute from the Comoros through a French supplier. This family-run business, specialising in complex extractions such as absolutes, works in close cooperation with farmers and distillers to better control the production process from harvest to finished goods.

Absolutes differ from essential oils in that they are obtained through a solvent extraction process rather than steam distillation. Although this may sound ruthless, it is actually gentler on plants' aromatic compounds and allows for fuller, more complex scents.

What does ylang-ylang absolute smell like?

Alina Gliwinska, one of Lush’s perfumer, describes: “Compared to the essential oil, which is floral with sweet, exotic fruit notes, the absolute is much deeper and is truer to the fresh ylang ylang flowers aroma. It is not as ‘floral sharp’, and has a nice earthy-juicy-warm depth. It’s great to soften earthy notes, and is a good bridge between woody-earthy and flowery notes.”

What are the benefits of ylang-ylang absolute?

Ylang-ylang absolute is certainly primarily used for its fragrance, but it is also valued for its mood-enhancing effects. The scent of ylang-ylang is said to have a relaxing, even sedative effect when inhaled. Being also warm, cheerful and invigorating, it is considered an aphrodisiac.

On the skin, hair, and scalp, the absolute’s benefits are similar to those of the essential oil. Soothing, cleansing, toning... It’s worth checking ylang ylang oil’s dedicated page to know more!